Home
Recipes
Pastry
Puff Pastry
Chili Cheese Twists Recipe

Chili Cheese Twists Recipe

Learn how to make these homemade Chili Cheese Twists with the perfect balance of heat and cheesy goodness. This easy baking recipe transforms store-bought puff pastry into impressive appetizers with just a handful of ingredients. The best part? They're ready in under 30 minutes for last-minute entertaining!
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
15 mins
Serves:
20 twists
Overhead shot of golden-brown Chili Cheese Twists arranged in a spiral pattern on a rustic wooden serving board, with some standing vertically to showcase their perfect twist pattern. The soft natural light highlights the flaky layers and crystallized cheese bits that have caramelized during baking. Close-up details reveal flecks of red chili flakes and green herbs embedded in the twists, creating visual interest against the rich golden pastry. A small ramekin of spicy dipping sauce sits to one side, with a few twists artfully placed as if mid-dip. The warm amber tones of the pastry contrast beautifully with the deep wooden background and scattered herbs, while wispy tendrils of steam suggest they've just emerged from the oven.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">375g ready-rolled puff pastry sheets (2 sheets)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">100g mature cheddar cheese, finely grated</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">50g Parmesan cheese, finely grated</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1-2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp dried oregano</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp garlic powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp flaky sea salt</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Baking sheets</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Parchment paper</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Pastry brush</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Sharp knife or pizza cutter</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan 180°C/gas mark 6) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This high temperature is crucial for creating those beautiful flaky layers in the puff pastry.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>In a small bowl, mix together the grated cheddar, Parmesan, chili flakes, dried oregano, and garlic powder until well combined. The combination of the two cheeses provides both melty texture and sharp flavor, while the herbs and spices add depth.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Unroll one sheet of puff pastry onto a clean, lightly floured work surface, keeping it on its original parchment if possible. Brush the surface lightly with beaten egg, which will act as a glue for your filling and give a golden finish.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Sprinkle half of the cheese and spice mixture evenly over the pastry, gently pressing it down with your palms to adhere. The pressing action is important - it prevents all your delicious filling from falling off during the twisting process.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry sheet into approximately 10 equal strips, about 2cm wide and 25cm long. Clean, decisive cuts will help maintain the pastry's layers and prevent dragging, which can seal the edges and inhibit rising.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Take each strip and twist it several times by holding both ends and rotating in opposite directions to create a spiral effect. The tighter the twist, the more defined your final result will be, but don't stretch the pastry too much or it might break.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Place the twists on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 3cm between each to allow for expansion. Gently press down the ends onto the parchment to prevent them from unraveling during baking.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Repeat the process with the second sheet of pastry and remaining cheese mixture to make approximately 20 twists in total.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>Brush each twist lightly with the remaining beaten egg and sprinkle with a little flaky sea salt. The egg wash creates that beautiful golden color, while the salt enhances all the flavors.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 10</h4>Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the twists are puffed up and golden brown. The cheese should be bubbling and slightly caramelized in spots. Watch carefully after the 10-minute mark as they can go from perfectly golden to overdone quite quickly due to the cheese content.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 11</h4>Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheets for 2-3 minutes to set slightly before transferring to a wire rack. This brief cooling period allows the cheese to firm up just enough so the twists hold their shape when moved.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 12</h4>Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience. These twists are at their crispy, flaky best when fresh from the oven, but they're still delicious at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days and refresh in a warm oven for a few minutes before serving.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Chili Cheese Twists?

Chili Cheese Twists require ready-rolled puff pastry sheets, mature cheddar, Parmesan, red chili flakes, dried oregano, garlic powder, egg for washing, and flaky sea salt. These simple ingredients create a perfect balance of cheesy flavour and spicy kick.

How to cook Chili Cheese Twists at home?

Learn how to cook Chili Cheese Twists by preheating your oven to 200°C, mixing cheese with spices, spreading over puff pastry, cutting into strips, and twisting. Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with salt, and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and flaky. The high temperature ensures perfectly crisp, puffy layers with caramelised cheese.

Can I make these savoury twists ahead of time for a party?

Yes! You can prepare these cheesy twists up to the twisting stage and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, bake them up to 2 days ahead and refresh in a warm oven for 3-5 minutes before serving. You can also freeze the unbaked twists for up to a month.

What's the best cheese to use for puff pastry twists?

A combination of hard, flavourful cheeses works best - mature cheddar provides rich flavour and good melt, while Parmesan adds salty depth and helps create crispy edges. For variations, try Gruyère, Manchego, or smoked cheeses. Avoid very soft cheeses as they can make the pastry soggy.

How do I get my cheese twists to hold their shape when baking?

For perfectly shaped twists, chill the twisted pastry for 15 minutes before baking, press the ends firmly onto the baking sheet, ensure cheese is pressed well into the pastry, use a sharp knife for clean cuts, and don't overstretch the pastry when twisting. The egg wash also helps seal the shape.

Want to try something else in ...

Puff Pastry

Try following recommended recipes

View all
An overhead shot of a perfectly golden Bakewell tart on a vintage ceramic cake stand, natural light highlighting the golden-brown flaked almonds scattered across the top. A cross-section slice reveals distinct layers: the crisp shortcrust pastry base, a vibrant streak of ruby-red raspberry jam, and the pale, moist almond frangipane filling. In the background, fresh raspberries and scattered almonds complement the scene, while a dusting of powdered sugar creates a delicate contrast against the rustic wooden table beneath. A silver cake server rests beside the tart, ready to cut another generous wedge of this quintessentially British dessert.
Pastry
Puff Pastry

Bakewell Tart Recipe

A buttery shortcrust pastry case filled with raspberry jam, rich frangipane, and topped with flaked almonds for a classic British treat that balances sweet, nutty flavors with a delightful texture contrast.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
45 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Serves:
1 tart (8 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot showcases golden-brown Chorizo and Manchego Twists arranged on a rustic terracotta serving platter, with several pieces broken to reveal the vibrant red chorizo and melted cheese layers within the flaky pastry. Soft natural light highlights the glossy egg-washed exterior and crisp, multi-layered edges. In the background, a small bowl of smoked paprika adds a pop of color, while scattered fresh thyme sprigs and a glass of Spanish rioja complete the Mediterranean scene. The close-up details capture both the delicate, buttery layers of the pastry and the savory filling that oozes slightly at the edges.
Pastry
Puff Pastry

Chorizo and Manchego Twists Recipe

Flaky puff pastry spirals filled with smoky chorizo and rich Manchego cheese create an irresistible savory treat with a perfect balance of Spanish flavors.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
25 mins
Serves:
24 twists
View recipe
An overhead shot captures golden, palm-sized pastry shells filled with vibrant pale green key lime curd, topped with lightly torched, cloud-like meringue peaks. Soft natural light highlights the contrast between the crisp, flaky layers of the pastry and the smooth, glossy filling. In the background, fresh key limes and zest are scattered across a white marble surface, while a vintage silver dessert fork rests beside one pastry, revealing the creamy interior as it pulls away. A light dusting of powdered sugar catches the light, and tiny specks of lime zest add color contrast against the pristine meringue swirls.
Pastry
Puff Pastry

Key Lime Pastries Recipe

Buttery, flaky pastry shells filled with zesty key lime curd and topped with pillowy meringue create the perfect balance of sweet and tangy in every delectable bite.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
45 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Serves:
12 pastries
View recipe
An overhead shot of a golden-brown Broccoli and Stilton Tart displayed on a rustic slate serving board. The tart is cut to reveal its creamy filling studded with vibrant green broccoli florets and pockets of melted Stilton. Soft natural light streams from a nearby window, highlighting the flaky, buttery pastry edge that's perfectly crimped. In the background, a small bowl of additional crumbled Stilton, some fresh thyme sprigs, and a glass of white wine create an inviting rustic table setting that emphasizes the tart's sophisticated yet homey appeal.
Pastry
Puff Pastry

Broccoli and Stilton Tart Recipe

A savory masterpiece featuring flaky buttery pastry filled with tender broccoli and pungent Stilton cheese, creating a perfect balance of creamy richness and subtle vegetable sweetness.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
40 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Serves:
1 tart (8 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of the ratatouille tart displaying a stunning mosaic of colorful vegetables arranged in concentric circles – vibrant red tomatoes, deep purple eggplant, golden yellow squash and orange bell peppers baked to perfection. Soft natural light highlights the glistening vegetable surfaces brushed with herbed olive oil, while wisps of steam rise from the just-sliced wedge revealing the crisp, golden pastry beneath. The tart rests on a weathered wooden board scattered with fresh thyme sprigs, roasted garlic cloves, and sea salt flakes, with a bottle of quality olive oil and rustic linen napkin subtly placed in the background.
Pastry
Puff Pastry

Ratatouille Tart Recipe

A buttery pastry crust filled with layers of roasted Mediterranean vegetables, fragrant herbs, and creamy goat cheese creates a rustic-elegant tart that balances vibrant summer flavors with flaky textures.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
45 mins
Cook Time:
50 mins
Serves:
1 tart (8 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of a rectangular Asparagus Tart with perfectly arranged bright green asparagus spears creating an elegant pattern across the golden surface. Soft natural light streams across the scene, highlighting the contrast between the vibrant asparagus and the rich, creamy filling. The tart rests on a rustic wooden board alongside scattered fresh herbs and a light dusting of black pepper. A cross-section view reveals layers of flaky pastry supporting the silky custard filling, with the asparagus tips proudly displayed. A vintage ceramic plate holds a single slice, showcasing the clean edges of the perfectly baked crust and the delicate texture of the filling.
Pastry
Puff Pastry

Asparagus Tart Recipe

A buttery, flaky pastry cradling tender asparagus spears nestled in a rich, creamy custard with hints of tangy cheese and delicate herbs.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
30 mins
Cook Time:
40 mins
Serves:
1 tart (8 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of golden-brown puff pastry squares arranged on a rustic wooden serving board, their tops glistening with an egg wash sheen. A cross-section view reveals the succulent BBQ pulled pork filling spilling out, showcasing the contrast between the flaky, buttery pastry layers and the deep reddish-brown meat. Soft natural light highlights the multiple delicate layers of the pastry while casting gentle shadows that emphasize texture. In the background, small bowls of additional BBQ sauce and fresh herbs add pops of color, while scattered smoked paprika and a light dusting of flour on the board hint at the baking process.
Pastry
Puff Pastry

BBQ Pulled Pork Puffs Recipe

Flaky, golden pastry puffs filled with tender, smoky BBQ pulled pork create the perfect savory bite that balances buttery layers with rich, tangy meat.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
30 mins
Cook Time:
25 mins
Serves:
12 puffs
View recipe
An overhead shot of six individual Black Forest pastries arranged on a rustic slate serving board, each displaying perfect layers of chocolate pastry, cherry filling, and piped rosettes of whipped cream. A cross-section of one pastry reveals the glossy burgundy cherry compote nestled within the dark chocolate pastry case. Natural window light highlights the glistening cherries and delicate chocolate curls scattered across the cream. In the background, a small glass of Kirsch and a scatter of fresh cherries with stems attached create context, while a light dusting of cocoa powder across the scene adds depth and contrast to the rich red cherries and stark white cream.
Pastry
Puff Pastry

Black Forest Pastries Recipe

Rich chocolate pastry shells filled with dark cherry compote, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings, offering the perfect balance of tartness, sweetness, and decadence in every bite.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
45 mins
Cook Time:
25 mins
Serves:
8 pastries
View recipe
An overhead shot of a Berry Galette resting on a worn wooden board, its golden-brown crust folded artfully around a vibrant pool of glistening mixed berries. Soft natural light streams from a nearby window, highlighting the contrast between the flaky, sugar-dusted pastry and the deep purple-red berry filling that bubbles slightly at the edges. A light dusting of powdered sugar creates a delicate contrast against the caramelized fruit juices that have seeped onto the parchment paper. In the background, scattered fresh berries, a small jar of honey, and a vintage silver serving knife complement the rustic, homemade charm of this free-form tart.
Pastry
Puff Pastry

Berry Galette Recipe

A rustic, free-form pastry cradling juicy summer berries beneath a golden, buttery crust that shatters delicately with each bite.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
30 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Serves:
1 galette (8 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of golden-brown puff pastry bites arranged on a rustic wooden serving board, their tops slightly open to reveal the molten brie cheese and ruby-red cranberry sauce inside. Soft natural light catches the flaky, buttery layers of the pastry, highlighting their delicate structure. A few fresh cranberries and small sprigs of thyme are scattered artfully around the board, while a drizzle of honey glistens across a few bites. In the background, a glass of white wine and holiday decorations suggest a festive gathering, with steam still visibly rising from these warm-from-the-oven treats.
Pastry
Puff Pastry

Brie and Cranberry Bites Recipe

Flaky, bite-sized puff pastry parcels filled with creamy melted brie and sweet-tart cranberry sauce, creating an irresistible savory-sweet appetizer that's perfect for entertaining.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Serves:
24 bites
View recipe
{ "@context": "http://schema.org/", "@type": "Recipe", "name": "Chili Cheese Twists Recipe", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Gurbir Aujla", "brand": "What's Baking?", "jobTitle": "Baker" }, "datePublished": "2024-04-10", "description": "Learn how to make these homemade Chili Cheese Twists with the perfect balance of heat and cheesy goodness. This easy baking recipe transforms store-bought puff pastry into impressive appetizers with just a handful of ingredients. The best part? They're ready in under 30 minutes for last-minute entertaining!", "prepTime": "PT15M", "cookTime": "PT15M", "totalTime": "PT30M", "keywords": "chili cheese twists, puff pastry appetizers, spicy cheese straws, easy party snacks, savory baking", "recipeYield": "20", "recipeCategory": "Appetizer", "recipeCuisine": "International", "nutrition": { "@type": "NutritionInformation", "calories": "115 calories", "carbohydrateContent": "7 g", "proteinContent": "3 g", "fatContent": "8 g", "saturatedFatContent": "3.5 g", "cholesterolContent": "24 mg", "sodiumContent": "130 mg", "sugarContent": "0.2 g", "servingSize": "1 twist" }, "recipeIngredient": [ "375g ready-rolled puff pastry sheets (2 sheets)", "100g mature cheddar cheese, finely grated", "50g Parmesan cheese, finely grated", "1-2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)", "1 tsp dried oregano", "1 tsp garlic powder", "1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)", "1/2 tsp flaky sea salt" ], "recipeInstructions": [ { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Preheat", "text": "Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan 180°C/gas mark 6) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This high temperature is crucial for creating those beautiful flaky layers in the puff pastry." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Mix Filling", "text": "In a small bowl, mix together the grated cheddar, Parmesan, chili flakes, dried oregano, and garlic powder until well combined. The combination of the two cheeses provides both melty texture and sharp flavor, while the herbs and spices add depth." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Prepare Pastry", "text": "Unroll one sheet of puff pastry onto a clean, lightly floured work surface, keeping it on its original parchment if possible. Brush the surface lightly with beaten egg, which will act as a glue for your filling and give a golden finish." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Add Fillings", "text": "Sprinkle half of the cheese and spice mixture evenly over the pastry, gently pressing it down with your palms to adhere. The pressing action is important - it prevents all your delicious filling from falling off during the twisting process." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Cut Strips", "text": "Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry sheet into approximately 10 equal strips, about 2cm wide and 25cm long. Clean, decisive cuts will help maintain the pastry's layers and prevent dragging, which can seal the edges and inhibit rising." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Twist Pastry", "text": "Take each strip and twist it several times by holding both ends and rotating in opposite directions to create a spiral effect. The tighter the twist, the more defined your final result will be, but don't stretch the pastry too much or it might break." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Arrange on Baking Sheet", "text": "Place the twists on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 3cm between each to allow for expansion. Gently press down the ends onto the parchment to prevent them from unraveling during baking." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Repeat Process", "text": "Repeat the process with the second sheet of pastry and remaining cheese mixture to make approximately 20 twists in total." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Add Final Touches", "text": "Brush each twist lightly with the remaining beaten egg and sprinkle with a little flaky sea salt. The egg wash creates that beautiful golden color, while the salt enhances all the flavors." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Bake", "text": "Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the twists are puffed up and golden brown. The cheese should be bubbling and slightly caramelized in spots. Watch carefully after the 10-minute mark as they can go from perfectly golden to overdone quite quickly due to the cheese content." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Cool Briefly", "text": "Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheets for 2-3 minutes to set slightly before transferring to a wire rack. This brief cooling period allows the cheese to firm up just enough so the twists hold their shape when moved." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Serve", "text": "Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience. These twists are at their crispy, flaky best when fresh from the oven, but they're still delicious at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days and refresh in a warm oven for a few minutes before serving." } ], "aggregateRating": { "@type": "AggregateRating", "ratingValue": "5", "ratingCount": "178" }, "review": [ { "@type": "Review", "author": "Maria Gonzalez", "datePublished": "2024-04-05", "reviewBody": "Addictively spicy! Made these for a dinner party and they disappeared in minutes. I had to make a second batch because everyone wanted more!", "name": "Irresistible Appetizer", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Oliver Schmidt", "datePublished": "2024-04-02", "reviewBody": "Perfect with cocktails! The balance of spicy and cheesy flavors was spot on. I'm already planning to make these again tomorrow for another gathering.", "name": "Cocktail Party Essential", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Priya Patel", "datePublished": "2024-04-08", "reviewBody": "Even my picky kids loved these cheesy treats! I reduced the chili flakes slightly for them, but the adults still found them flavorful. Great family-friendly recipe.", "name": "Kid-Approved Twists", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "François Dubois", "datePublished": "2024-04-12", "reviewBody": "These taste like restaurant-quality appetizers but were so simple to make! The detailed instructions made the process foolproof. My guests were impressed that they were homemade.", "name": "Restaurant Quality at Home", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Sophia Nakamura", "datePublished": "2024-04-10", "reviewBody": "I doubled the chili for extra kick and they were fantastic! I also made a batch to freeze for unexpected guests. They reheat beautifully in the oven for a few minutes.", "name": "Spicy and Freezer-Friendly", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } } ] }
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What ingredients are used in Chili Cheese Twists?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Chili Cheese Twists require ready-rolled puff pastry sheets, mature cheddar, Parmesan, red chili flakes, dried oregano, garlic powder, egg for washing, and flaky sea salt. These simple ingredients create a perfect balance of cheesy flavour and spicy kick." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How to cook Chili Cheese Twists at home?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Learn how to cook Chili Cheese Twists by preheating your oven to 200°C, mixing cheese with spices, spreading over puff pastry, cutting into strips, and twisting. Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with salt, and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and flaky. The high temperature ensures perfectly crisp, puffy layers with caramelised cheese." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I make these savoury twists ahead of time for a party?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes! You can prepare these cheesy twists up to the twisting stage and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, bake them up to 2 days ahead and refresh in a warm oven for 3-5 minutes before serving. You can also freeze the unbaked twists for up to a month." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What's the best cheese to use for puff pastry twists?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "A combination of hard, flavourful cheeses works best - mature cheddar provides rich flavour and good melt, while Parmesan adds salty depth and helps create crispy edges. For variations, try Gruyère, Manchego, or smoked cheeses. Avoid very soft cheeses as they can make the pastry soggy." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I get my cheese twists to hold their shape when baking?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "For perfectly shaped twists, chill the twisted pastry for 15 minutes before baking, press the ends firmly onto the baking sheet, ensure cheese is pressed well into the pastry, use a sharp knife for clean cuts, and don't overstretch the pastry when twisting. The egg wash also helps seal the shape." } } ] }